Apple Cider Donut Cake

Love Apple Cider Donuts but don’t want to go through the steps to make them? This Apple Cider Donut Cake is the answer! It has all the flavor of our favorite seasonal treat, but made as a super easy snack cake.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Unlike traditional donuts, this cake comes together in one bowl and bakes in under 30 minutes.
• Delicious Flavor: The rich apple cider and warm spices create a delightful taste that captures the essence of fall.
• Versatile Treat: Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack—enjoy it any time you crave something sweet!
• No Special Equipment Needed: You can whip it up with basic kitchen tools, making it accessible for everyone.
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is sure to impress family and friends at gatherings or casual get-togethers.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making this delicious Apple Cider Donut Cake, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• 9” square baking dish
• Medium mixing bowl
• Large sauté pan
• Whisk
• Cooling rack

Why These Tools Matter

• 9” square baking dish: Ideal for even baking and easy cake removal with parchment paper.
• Medium mixing bowl: Perfect size for combining wet ingredients without spilling.
• Large sauté pan: Helps reduce the apple cider quickly for maximum flavor concentration.
• Whisk: Ensures thorough mixing of ingredients for a smooth batter.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1-½ cups fresh apple cider
– 4 tablespoons (66 grams) cold unsalted butter, diced
– 2 large eggs
– 1/3 cup (70 grams) granulated sugar
– ½ cup (110 grams) lightly packed brown sugar
– 1/3 cup (70 grams) light olive oil (or other neutral oil)
– ¼ cup (66 grams) sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
– 1-½ teaspoons baking powder
– ½ teaspoon baking soda
– 1-½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
– Pinch allspice
– 1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt (if using fine sea salt use half by volume)
– 1-¾ cups (210 grams) all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon butter, at cool room temperature
– ¼ cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

How to Make Apple Cider Donut Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Prepare a 9” square baking dish by buttering it or spraying it with oil. Line it with a piece of parchment paper long enough to hang over the sides to create a sling.

Step 2: Reduce Apple Cider

In a large sauté pan, bring the fresh apple cider to a boil. Continue boiling until reduced by half, which should take about 5 minutes. Measure out to ensure you have approximately ¾ cup.

Step 3: Combine Butter and Cider

Add the diced cold butter into the hot apple cider. Whisk until the butter melts completely and mixes well with the cider.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
1. Eggs
2. Granulated sugar
3. Brown sugar
4. Olive oil
5. Sour cream
6. Baking powder
7. Baking soda
8. Ground cinnamon
9. Allspice
10. Salt

Step 5: Incorporate Cider Mixture

Slowly whisk the boiled cider mixture into the wet ingredients until well combined.

Step 6: Add Flour

Gently stir in the all-purpose flour until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this helps keep your cake light and fluffy.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour your batter into the prepared baking dish evenly. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for about 22–25 minutes until puffed, golden, and baked through in the middle.

Step 8: Cool Slightly

Once baked, transfer the cake to a cooling rack and let it sit for about five minutes.

Step 9: Add Butter Topping

Place a tablespoon of butter on top of the warm cake. Brush it around so that it melts evenly across the surface.

Step 10: Sprinkle Cinnamon Sugar

In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Generously sprinkle this mixture over the melted butter on top of your cake.

Step 11: Remove from Pan

Carefully remove the cake from the pan using the parchment sling and let it cool completely on a rack.

Step 12: Slice & Serve

Allow your Apple Cider Donut Cake to cool slightly before cutting it into squares for serving. Enjoy this delightful treat!

How to Serve Apple Cider Donut Cake

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, there are plenty of options to elevate your experience.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee: Pairing the cake with a hot cup of coffee enhances its flavors and provides a warm, comforting experience.
• Tea: A light herbal or chai tea complements the spices in the cake nicely, creating a cozy afternoon treat.
• Cider: Warm apple cider brings out the cake’s fruity notes and adds an extra layer of fall flavor.

Topped with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over warm slices, adding richness.
• Caramel Ice Cream: The sweet caramel flavor pairs perfectly with the cinnamon and apple notes in the cake.

For an Elegant Dessert

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top makes for a simple yet elegant presentation.
• Fruit Compote: Serve with a side of berry or apple compote for added sweetness and texture.

How to Perfect Apple Cider Donut Cake

To ensure your Apple Cider Donut Cake turns out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips that will enhance your baking experience.

• Bold use fresh cider: Using fresh apple cider will give you the best flavor profile. Avoid using bottled cider as it may lack the same depth of taste.
• Bold measure accurately: Proper measurements are crucial for baking. Use a kitchen scale for precise ingredient amounts.
• Bold check doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. This prevents overbaking.
• Bold cool before cutting: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before cutting helps maintain its structure and makes slicing easier.
• Bold experiment with spices: Feel free to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding nutmeg or ginger can add unique flavors to your cake.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cider Donut Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cider Donut Cake can enhance its flavors and create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits like apples and pears adds freshness that balances the sweetness of the cake.
2. Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and berries for a nutritious side that complements the cake’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: A variety of cheeses, such as sharp cheddar or creamy brie, can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
4. Nuts and Dried Fruits: A small bowl of mixed nuts and dried fruits offers crunchiness and additional flavor dimensions.
5. Savory Scones: Herb-infused scones make an excellent pairing, balancing out the sweetness of the donut cake with their savory goodness.
6. Simple Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing can cleanse the palate between bites of sweet cake.
7. Pumpkin Spice Chia Pudding: This creamy pudding is flavored with pumpkin spice and makes for an autumn-inspired side dish that pairs well with apple flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cider Donut Cake can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

• Neglecting the Cider Reduction: Failing to boil down the apple cider can lead to a lack of flavor. Always reduce it by half to concentrate the taste.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can make the cake tough. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Skipping the Parchment Paper: Not using parchment may cause sticking. Always line your baking dish for easy removal and clean-up.
• Incorrect Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure your oven is preheated and accurate for even baking.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Approximate measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for accuracy.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it on a shelf, away from moisture, for best results.

Freezing Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Apple Cider Donut Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake slices wrapped in foil for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 15-20 seconds; avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Apple Cider Donut Cake?

Apple Cider Donut Cake is a moist, flavorful cake that captures the essence of traditional apple cider donuts, making it an easy and delicious treat.

Can I use different types of oil?

Yes, you can substitute light olive oil with other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil without affecting the flavor or texture.

How do I know when my cake is done?

The cake is ready when it’s puffed, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to customize your Apple Cider Donut Cake by adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor and texture.

How should I serve this cake?

This cake is delightful served warm or at room temperature. You can enjoy it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar for added sweetness.

Conclusion

This Apple Cider Donut Cake offers all the comforting flavors of fall in an easy-to-make dessert. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate. Try this recipe today and enjoy a slice of seasonal goodness!